ABSTRACT
Pollution is a normal result of human activity. It is the unwanted introduction of something into the environment that causes harm. In a comparative risk assessment of the global burden of disease, both ambient air pollution and indoor air pollution were among the most significant factors. They ranked alongside factors such as childhood malnutrition, tobacco smoke, and alcohol consumption in global disability adjusted life years reduced. 1 Throughout the history of humans, exposure to pollution has been constant and pervasive. Just to list the names of documented pollution events that have dramatically impacted human health would not be possible in the space allowed. Since the formation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1970, there have been continuing efforts to monitor and improve air quality throughout the United States. But, there is probably no absolutely safe level of air pollution. 2,3 The interests of health are constantly colliding with the interests of economic development, which further confound issues related to air quality. Regardless of one's perspective, having an essential understanding of the impact of environmental determinants on respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD is necessary for effective management of these patients.
